Stars in their eyes for Clark and Borthwick
Jeremy Blackmore on the inspirational qualities of two of international cricket’s biggest names
Jordan Clark and Scott Borthwick drew inspiration from batting masterclasses from two of the greats. Both registered important maiden centuries as their respective partners Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Kumar Sangakkara demonstrated all the legendary skill, class and experience that brought them a combined 24,000 Test runs.
The partnerships Clark and Borthwick shared with the two legends brought out the best in both and ensured the game ended fittingly in a riveting draw.
First Clark shared a 243-run stand with the West Indian to put Lancashire firmly back on top after slipping to a perilous 122-6. It was a partnership which showed Clark’s maturity and underlined his desire to be regarded as far more than a one-day player.
Looking to be positive throughout, he put the Surrey bowlers back on the defensive. At the other end was Chanderpaul, obdurate, immovable, on his way to a magnificent 182.
“It was really good batting with Shiv,” said Clark, 26. “He’s a real chilled bloke. With the experience he’s got, it’s really good for him to pass on his advice.
“It makes you work harder because you can’t throw your wicket away, because you’ve seen him bat for days in international cricket, so you’ve got to put your foot down and bat with him in partnership. You’ve got to stick in with him, because he’s such a good player.”
Clark has relished the opportunity he has been given to start this season in the 1st XI and with it the opportunity to cement his place in red-ball cricket.
Famed for once hitting six sixes in a 2nd XI over, Clark moved from 82 to 100 in the space of six balls, hitting Mark Footitt for three boundaries and then swivelling to pull the fast bowler for a huge six. “Trying to survive is probably not one of my strengths,” he said. “So, to play with intent, but not irrationally is going to work better for me.”
Borthwick became the second of Surrey’s two Durham signings to score a first century for their new club following Mark Stoneman’s last week. Borthwick batted for most of the final day after Surrey followed on, putting on 256 runs in almost 65 overs with Sangakkara (136) to secure a well-earned draw.
“It’s something I’ve dreamt of for the last six months now,” said Borthwick. “It’s always nice to get a hundred, but this was a good feeling. I think we needed it as a team to bounce back. So, it was a good team effort and batting with Sanga was fantastic. Watching him go about his business was quite unbelievable.
“It’s the best seat in the house. It’s almost like you’re learning from him by watching and the way he talks to you, it feels almost like a bit of coaching as well, he gives you tips especially against spin. He’s a massive player of spin.”